"Mindfulness for Children".
We know mindfulness is good for most people and kids are no exception. An emerging body of research indicates that mindfulness can help children improve their abilities to pay attention, to calm down when they are anxious - it seems to help with emotional regulation, focus, concentration and cognitive skills. Mindful awareness exercises also may help children develop self-awareness, acceptance, loving-kindness, empathy, self-worth, self-compassion, plus social inter-relations with others and the world around them in a more nonjudgmental manner.
It can help parents and caregivers, too, by promoting well-being and relieving stress and anxiety. The links we've selected here, will offer basic tips for children and adults of all ages, as well as several activities that may help develop compassion, focus, curiosity and empathy.
Mindfulness has emerged as a popular mainstream practice in recent decades. It is being taught throughout the world for corporations, athletes in the locker room, and increasingly, to children both at home and in school.
David Gelles, in a article for the New York Times, says:
"Part of the reason why mindfulness is so effective for children can be explained by the way the brain develops. While our brains are constantly developing throughout our lives, connections in the prefrontal circuits are created at their fastest rate during childhood. Mindfulness, which promotes skills that are controlled in the prefrontal cortex, like focus and cognitive control, can therefore have a particular impact on the development of skills including self-regulation, judgment and patience during childhood."
Further readings: